It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Donald R. McDaniel (1953–2025), a beloved resident of Churubusco, Indiana. Don left this world peacefully on December 29, 2025, at 11:05 p.m., surrounded by family in his daughter’s home after a long illness. His life was defined by creativity, resilience, humor, and a love that touched all who knew him.
Born in Toledo, Ohio, on October 12, 1953, to Mildred and Richard McDaniel, Don was affectionately called “Donnie” in his youth. His early years reflected a spirit of service and achievement, culminating in the honor of becoming an Eagle Scout. After graduating from Elmhurst High School in 1971, he pursued further learning at IPFW, where his curiosity and commitment to growth continued for many years.
Don married Marlene in 1976, beginning a partnership that lasted nearly five decades. Together they built a life rich with adventure—traveling across the country, camping under the stars, and enjoying concerts by artists such as John Denver and Jimmy Buffett. Their marriage was blessed with two children, Amanda and Corey, and filled with laughter, shared traditions, and enduring love.
Don’s career spanned more than 35 years at Parkview Hospital, where he worked in the print shop with diligence and pride until his retirement in 2016. Outside of work, he was a lifelong artist whose woodcarving and woodworking brought beauty into everyday life. Retirement opened new creative doors, and he embraced watercolor painting with the same enthusiasm that had fueled his artistry for decades.
He was preceded in death by his son Corey in 2014, his wife Marlene in 2025, his father Richard in 2001, and his mother Mildred in 2022. He is survived by his daughter Amanda and her husband Nathaniel Brundige; grandchildren Maya and Liliana Brake, and Violet and Raven Brundige, all of Fort Wayne; his brother Mac McDaniel of Monroeville; and many extended family members. His humor, wisdom, storytelling, and famously strong hugs will be remembered with affection.
Funeral services will be held on January 10, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Trinity English Lutheran Church, 450 West Washington Boulevard, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Visitation will begin two hours prior to the service. Family, friends, and community members will gather to honor a man whose generosity, artistry, and quiet strength left a lasting legacy. Donald R. McDaniel lived fully, and his memory will continue to inspire for generations to come.
